Good book to start Java Desktop (GUI) development

Question

Hi,

i am wondering which book is best for starting Java development for a desktop app.

I have extensive experience in AS3, PHP and also now OOP from Java (back in the University time). But now I need to develop a desktop based app which was previously written in Delphi. Now a little Swing, but want to have a good book to show me the way.

Was thinking of using NetBeans to design the GUI and then wire it up manually and either using a SQLLite database or the Java built in DB.

Thanks for the help. Martin

Answer 1

There are two things to consider when learning GUI development.

First, you need to learn the specific platform - Swing in this case. There are plenty of books on Swing out there.

The second thing you should learn is how to design GUIs (AKA, usability). Creating a GUI is not as simple as placing a button on the screen and having someone press it. There is a lot to consider with respect to how to provide usability to your end-users. There are a number of books available on usability and human-computer interaction. I'd recommend checking these out to if you're interested in learning how to design GUIs.

Answer 2

I liked swing hacks when it came out. Although i knew a bit of swing before i read it.

I also learned a lot from suns book and the howto use <some swing component> guides

Answer 3

Fithy Rich Clients is a serious book, despite its weird name.

Answer 4

Java Swing, Second Edition

Answer 5

The Java Tutorial from Sun is a good start. http://java.sun.com/docs/books/tutorial/uiswing/ is the Swing trail.

When you know how things work and get tired of doing manual layouts, the GUI designer in Netbeans is a joy to work with. The result can then be packaged and used in any IDE you like.